This week, I’m thrilled to feature a new creative perspective in my interview series once more. Simone Rindlisbacher has joined me to answer a few questions. She’s a photographer with a focus on portrait and dance photography.
What drives her? It’s simple: Simone has a genuine curiosity about the people she photographs. With a keen eye and a sensitive approach, she captures the essence of her subjects, aiming for them to see their photos and think, “Yes, that’s me – and I’m amazing.”
Introduction
What’s your name?
I’m Simone Rindlisbacher.
Where do you live?
Near Bern, in beautiful Switzerland.
What kind of art/creativity do you primarily focus on?
I love portrait photography – it’s truly my passion.
Have you completed any formal training, or are you self-taught?
I learned photography through a course, attended various workshops and coaching sessions, and then it was all about practising, failing, improving, practising, and repeating the cycle.
Where can people view your work? Do you have a website or social media profiles you'd like to share?
Website | Instagram | Strkng
You are creative. Why?
I grew up with a very creative mother. We were always crafting something, and the sewing machine was ready for use every single day. Over ten years ago, I started a DIY blog under the name Frau Rösi (if you’re curious). In 2017, I truly discovered photography for myself, and by around 2019, I began to focus more deeply on portrait and dance photography.
What inspires you?
People, moments, things, situations, and of course, other photographers.
Are there any specific artists or styles that influence you?
Absolutely! Photographers like Kim Höhnle have a profound impact on me—not just through their photography but also through their mindset. The intimacy, expression, and creativity in her work are incredibly inspiring. Since attending a coaching session with her, I’ve been able to truly immerse myself in my photography.
I have a strong passion for creative portraiture. I prefer working with available light—natural, ambient light without a flash—because I love the way it feels and the endless possibilities it gives me to express myself.
What does your creative process look like?
I work with a camera and two lenses, along with various creative props like an old parachute, a tulle skirt, painter's plastic sheeting, or a prism.
Ideas? I always seem to have plenty of those. Sometimes they come to me while ironing, when I see a photograph by another artist, when I explore a magical location, or when an object sparks my creativity. I often create a mood board with inspirational images and keywords to help shape the concept.
Once I have a clear idea, I start looking for a model. Sometimes I announce a project on Instagram, or I reach out directly to someone I have in mind and invite them to collaborate on the project.
Simone's Models
Simone doesn’t just take photos; she creates connections – which includes tagging her models. Feel free to check out these amazing people and their Instagram accounts!
Is there a particular project or piece that means a lot to you?
I have several favourite photos; I can’t pick just one. But of course, the fact that the dancer I photograph most often is our daughter makes those images especially meaningful to me.
What has been the biggest challenge you've faced as an artist?
Sometimes, finding the right, expressive model can be quite a challenge. Working in the TFP space doesn’t make it any easier. (TFP = Time for Pictures, where the model and photographer collaborate, both receive the photos, no money is exchanged, and they credit each other when the images are used.)
How important is connection and interaction with other artists and creatives?
Exchanging ideas is very important to me. It’s inspiring, motivating, and valuable all at once. I feel fortunate to be part of such a supportive circle of photographers.
What does art mean to you? What role does it play in your life?
Art—or rather creativity in any form—is an integral part of my life. I feel grateful to have this outlet for self-expression.
Your Chance: Be Part of My Interview Series!
Are you an artist or creative, whether in painting, music, literature, or any other form of art? If you’d like to talk about your work and creative process, I’d love to hear from you!
I’m excited to showcase the diversity of creative expression in my interview series and to learn from your perspectives and experiences.
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